OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma is taking steps to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing global space industry with the launch of a statewide strategy aimed at expanding its aerospace capabilities and attracting new business opportunities. State officials say the initiative is designed to help Oklahoma compete for high-paying jobs, private investment and federal contracts as the commercial space sector continues its rapid growth.
The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), in partnership with the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), unveiled the Oklahoma Space Advantage Strategy during the Oklahoma Breakfast ahead of the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow. The framework is intended to build on the state’s established aerospace industry while creating a roadmap for future participation in the expanding space economy.
The announcement comes as the global space economy is experiencing significant growth. Currently valued at approximately $630 billion, the sector is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, driven by increasing investments in satellite technology, launch services, advanced manufacturing, communications and commercial space exploration. As competition among states intensifies, officials believe coordinated planning will be essential to securing a share of the industry’s economic benefits.
Governor Kevin Stitt said Oklahoma is prepared to capitalize on the opportunity by leveraging its existing aerospace strengths and experienced workforce.
“We’re going to be top 10 in everything we do,” said Governor Kevin Stitt. “We’ve been building the backbone of the aerospace industry and we do it better than anyone else. By seizing this moment, we are creating generations of quality, good paying jobs for our kids and grandkids. This is a critical moment, and we are prepared to take it.”
The Oklahoma Space Advantage Strategy is designed to position the state as a competitive destination for companies involved in space-related manufacturing, research, engineering and technology development. Officials say the initiative will help coordinate efforts across government agencies, industry leaders and educational institutions to support long-term growth.
State leaders view the strategy as an extension of Oklahoma’s long-standing reputation in aerospace. The state already supports a substantial aviation and defense industry, with expertise in aircraft maintenance, manufacturing and engineering. Those capabilities are expected to provide a strong foundation for attracting businesses looking to expand into the commercial space sector.
The new framework also reflects growing national competition as states seek to secure investment from both private companies and federal agencies. With increasing demand for advanced aerospace technologies and space infrastructure, states with established industrial capacity and coordinated economic development plans are expected to have an advantage in attracting new projects.
Officials believe the strategy will help Oklahoma build on its existing strengths while encouraging innovation across multiple sectors connected to the space economy. By aligning workforce development, infrastructure planning and industry partnerships, the state hopes to create an environment that supports future business expansion and technological advancement.
Economic development remains a central focus of the initiative. State leaders expect the strategy to encourage new investment, create skilled employment opportunities and generate additional tax revenue as more companies establish or expand operations in Oklahoma. The plan is also intended to enhance the state’s competitiveness when pursuing federal contracts tied to aerospace and space-related programs.
Industry forecasts suggest that the global space economy will continue to expand over the next decade as commercial activity increases alongside government investment. Advances in satellite services, communications, defense technologies and space exploration are expected to drive continued demand for manufacturing, engineering and research capabilities.
By introducing the Oklahoma Space Advantage Strategy, state officials are positioning Oklahoma to compete for a larger share of that growth. The initiative underscores the state’s commitment to strengthening its aerospace sector while pursuing new opportunities within one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, with the goal of delivering long-term economic benefits for businesses, workers and communities across Oklahoma.
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